National chain Take 5 Oil Change opens in Kalispell

Take 5 Oil Change has opened its doors at 52 N. Main St. in Kalispell, and strives to make deep ties in the community beyond promising fast turnaround on oil changes. 

Ryan Schneider, Franchise Manager at Last Best Oil Change, LLC, says things are working out great in their location. 

“Our decision to be on Main Street, adjacent to the recently built Parkline Trail and across from the entrance to Super 1 Foods, positions us perfectly to serve the entire Flathead Community,” Schneider said. “We love the character and sense of community within Kalispell, and we are eager to contribute to that by providing fast-turnaround oil change services.”

The Kalispell location marks the first of eight planned stores within Montana, currently making Last Best Oil Change, LLC the exclusive operator of Take 5 Oil Change garages in the Treasure State. 

With a brand new shop and a staff of locals, Schneider is excited to move into 2024 and train his crew up on the Take 5 method, “which is a little different process” from the team’s previous experience. 

“My staff is from Columbia Falls and Lakeside and places right nearby,” Schneider says. It’s a new team, a new shop: They’ve got some previous experience, but it’s a little different process so we’re getting situated.”

During a typical 10-minute oil change, customers pull their vehicle on top of 3.5-foot deep pits, where one employee below will drain the oil while others top off the fluids and replace oil from above. 

In a press release, Schneider attested that oil and community service mix just fine. He plans to incorporate volunteer work with the business of changing motor oil.    

Having grown up in Lubbock, Texas, Schneider understands how small businesses thrive by becoming integral to the community, and he believes in giving young people opportunities for social activities that help develop skills and improve focus. To that end he plans to help with local charities, events, and youth programs: Other volunteering suggestions from the community are welcome. 

“Once we get our feet under us, we will get started with community support — so please reach out to us.” 

Reporter Carl Foster can be reached at 758-4407 or cfoster@dailyinterlake.com.